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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.